By Matt Minton, Tanya Fedak, Mya Copeland
Everett Collection Moana and Maui are setting sail once again — this time, in live-action.
Releasing in theaters July 10, Disney’s animated musical “Moana” comes back to life with a brand new live-action remake led by Catherine Laga’aia, who stars as the titular character.
Similar to the original, the film follows Moana’s journey to restore the heart of Te Fiti and help her village people of Motunui. Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as the shapeshifting demigod Maui, who joins Moana on her quest (while also treating audiences to a new and improved rendition of “You’re Welcome.”)
Jemaine Clement also returns to the story as the CGI-version of the crab Tamatoa, who is known for his love of all things shiny. “Moana” will also welcome in new faces to bring the story to life, including Laga’aia, who is making her film debut.
As for those who’ve grown to love the animated film’s chaotic animal sidekicks, you need not worry, as even Pua and Heihei will be returning to tag along on Moana’s journey across the sea.
Here is a look at the key characters and the actors who bring them to life:
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Moana (Catherine Laga’aia)
After Auli’i Cravalho’s angelic voice introduced the world to “How Far I’ll Go” ten years ago, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia leads this new take and appears as the brave titular character who learns to embrace her love of the sea. Born in Sydney, Australia, the 19-year-old breakout star previously appeared in three episodes of “The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart” as a young version of Candy, the character played by Frankie Adams. Laga’aia grew up with eight siblings; her father, Jay Lagaʻaia, is also a performer, appearing in Star Wars films like “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith” as Tycho Celchu.
